University Music, which began as a joint department with Bournemouth University in 2012, has seen hundreds of students take part in a wide range of musical activities during their studies, from group trips to professional concerts to performing major works, concertos and recitals in exquisite venues including Romsey Abbey, Salisbury Cathedral and Christchurch Priory.
The department, which is based at Talbot House, just above the Medical Centre runs three choirs as well as two large orchestras, and is the primary port of call for students looking for music tuition and music scholarship information.
Ian Davis, Head of University Music, said: “We’re open to all and anybody with an interest in music will receive a warm welcome. We cater for all abilities and, whilst there are lots of performance opportunities, we also welcome those who just like to listen to music. Many students or members of staff have taken the opportunity to start learning an instrument or re-take one up from their childhood days.
He added: “Every year we have dozens of students come to join university Music, and throughout their first few weeks they discover which ensemble or instrument suits them. It’s a really great opportunity to meet new friends with a shared love of music.”
Tuition for almost every instrument is available at a cost of £30 per hour, with lessons being flexibly suited to each student according to their availability. A range of practice rooms, which are equipped with pianos and other instruments are also available to use on a first come, first served basis from 8am-10pm daily
The University Music Scholarship Scheme is available to musicians with grade 8 and A level music and encourages excellence and development in both performance and academic musical study. If selected to study on the scheme, scholars will receive instrumental/vocal tuition, as well as developing their skills through membership of orchestras, choirs and bands.
For a number of years, the department has run a successful concert series on campus and free tickets are available for students. Heavily discounted tickets to a range of Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra performances both in the local area and further afield are also available.
Students looking to become involved in a choir are warmly invited to come along to free sessions for musical theatre, chamber and community choir, held on Wednesdays and Thursdays. These sessions, held at Talbot House, are free to students, and new members are able to join by dropping in on a convenient session:
Musical Theatre – Wednesdays, 1.15-1.45pm
Chamber Classical Choir – Wednesdays, 4.45 to 6.15pm
University Community Choir – Thursdays, 7-9pm
University of Music public events begin on Friday 4 October at 1.15-1.45pm, with a lunchtime concert by University Music Scholars and staff, who will be performing a variety of songs and instrumental pieces in an informal half-hour recital at AUB’s South House Theatre.
Those interested in learning a new instrument, participating in the scholarship scheme or using a practice room should contact Ian Davis.
